PCAD Monk Activist Accused Of Insurrection

Mr. Chaithanapol Srichiwangsa and Mr. Sathien Vipromma, representatives of ′Buddhist Association′, met with Pol.Col. Prasopchoke Prommul today to file their complaint against Luang Phu Buddha Issara, a core leader of the People′s Committee for Absolute Democracy With the King As Head of State (PCAD).

 

Luang Phu Buddha Issara has been a de facto leader of PCAD supporters at the rally site near Government Complex on Chaeng Wattana Road, and he has led numerous demonstrations wearing monk outfit. 

 

These activities, Mr. Chaithanapol and Mr. Sathien argued, amount to acts of insurrection criminalised under Section 113 of the Thai Criminal Codes and a clear violation of Sangha Acts, which forbid monks from associating themselves with politics. 

 

The pair also accused Luang Bhu Buddha Issara of insulting the newly-installed acting Supreme Patriarch, and of disrespecting the Sangha hierarchy. 

 

"Luang Phu Buddha Issara has joined the rally with PCAD and has acted as one of their leaders," Mr. Chaithanapol told police, "He led the mass to shutdown many state agencies around Chaeng Wattana Road. He has caused great troubles to the public".

 

Apart from filing legal charges today, Mr. Chaithanapol said, his group will meet with a prelate in Nakhon Pathom province and urge him to seek disciplinary action against the activist monk.